High Spirits dedication in Ipswich

WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 10:30 a.m. for music and refreshments/viewing of sculpture and 11 a.m. for dedication ceremony.

WHERE: North Main Street at the lower North Green, next to the sculpture

ABOUT: Town officials will recount the project history, the donor and sculptor will make remarks, and persons who helped make the project possible will be acknowledged.

The town will also unveil a plaque installed on the sculpture’s granite ledge commemorating the artists of Ipswich for their works, which, as the plaque states, “have provided beauty, inspiration, and hope.”

The donor, Rick Silverman, commissioned a public sculpture, which acknowledges the contributions of Ipswich artists, about eight years ago, following the death of his wife, Robin Silverman, who was an active member of the town’s art community.

Silverman chose Chris Williams, a noted sculptor from Essex, to bring his vision to reality. It took nearly three years of effort to identify a location for the sculpture, obtain town approval and to have High Spirits installed. The sculpture has been in place for about six months.

Parking will be limited so the Planning Department recommends riding a bike or walking.